Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB2369

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the reliability and resiliency of the power grid in this state; authorizing the issuance of revenue bonds.

Impact

The legislation has implications for existing state energy laws by providing a structured financial framework for enhancing generation capacity. The PUC is empowered to prioritize projects based on specific criteria such as the financial integrity of applicants and potential leveraging of additional funding sources. This shift could lead to transformative changes in how energy projects are financed and managed within the state, emphasizing reliability and immediate responsiveness to energy supply challenges.

Summary

SB2369 aims to enhance the reliability and resiliency of Texas's power grid by establishing a Utilities Reliability Fund and authorizing the issuance of revenue bonds. The bill allows the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC) to provide financial assistance for utility and power generation projects that are deemed necessary to improve the state's energy infrastructure. The intent is to ensure a robust response to high demand and low supply circumstances. Through this funding mechanism, the bill seeks to create sustainable and secure energy resources across Texas.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around SB2369 appears to be cautiously optimistic, with proponents emphasizing the need for a modernized and dependable power grid system. Supporters argue that the bill addresses significant vulnerabilities in the current infrastructure, while a cautious approach has prompted discussions on making sure public spending aligns with project efficacy. Critics raise concerns about how the funds will be administered and whether such measures will effectively translate into tangible improvements in grid reliability.

Contention

Notably, the bill has sparked contention regarding the management and transparency of the Utilities Reliability Fund. There are concerns that the PUC's broad discretion in issuing financial assistance could lead to favoritism or misallocation of funds. Additionally, the reliance on revenue bonds raises questions about long-term financial obligations and accountability, making it imperative for oversight mechanisms to be established alongside the fund.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Utilities Code

  • Chapter 35. Energy Providers
    • Section: New Section

Companion Bills

TX SJR88

Enabling for Proposing a constitutional amendment creating the utilities reliability fund and the utilities reliability revenue fund to provide financial support for projects that enhance the reliability and resiliency of the power grid in this state.

TX SJR88

Enabling for Proposing a constitutional amendment creating the utilities reliability fund and the utilities reliability revenue fund to provide financial support for projects that enhance the reliability and resiliency of the power grid in this state.

Previously Filed As

TX SB2070

Relating to the funding of projects by the Public Utility Commission of Texas to promote the reliability and resiliency of the power grid in this state; authorizing the issuance of revenue bonds.

TX HB97

Relating to the funding of projects by the Texas Water Development Board to promote utility reliability, resiliency, efficiency, conservation, and demand reduction; authorizing the issuance of revenue bonds.

TX HB2000

Relating to the funding of projects by the Texas Water Development Board to promote utility reliability, resiliency, efficiency, conservation, and demand reduction; authorizing the issuance of revenue bonds.

TX HB181

Relating to the funding of projects by the Texas Water Development Board to promote utility reliability, resiliency, efficiency, conservation, and demand reduction; authorizing the issuance of revenue bonds.

TX HB1800

Relating to the Texas resilience infrastructure fund; authorizing the issuance of revenue bonds; making an appropriation.

TX SB1682

Relating to the funding of utility reliability projects by the Texas Water Development Board and other entities; authorizing the issuance of revenue bonds, granting rulemaking authority, and making an appropriation.

TX SJR88

Proposing a constitutional amendment creating the utilities reliability fund and the utilities reliability revenue fund to provide financial support for projects that enhance the reliability and resiliency of the power grid in this state.

TX SJR80

Proposing a constitutional amendment creating the utilities reliability fund and the utilities reliability revenue fund to provide financial support for projects that enhance the reliability and resiliency of the power grid in this state.

TX HB4834

Relating to the use of the Texas energy reliability fund to finance construction of electric generating facilities in the ERCOT power region; authorizing fees.

TX SB4

Relating to the administration and functions of the Texas Water Development Board; authorizing the issuance of revenue bonds.

Similar Bills

TX SB2070

Relating to the funding of projects by the Public Utility Commission of Texas to promote the reliability and resiliency of the power grid in this state; authorizing the issuance of revenue bonds.

TX SB211

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Facilities Commission and to property development plans in connection with governmental entities; authorizing fees.

TX HB3257

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TX SB212

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TX SB200

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Health and Human Services Commission and the provision of health and human services in this state.

TX HB2304

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Health and Human Services Commission and the provision of health and human services in this state.

TX SB277

Relating to certain health-related and other task forces and advisory committees.

MS HB839

Solemn Covenant of the States to Award Prizes for Curing Diseases Compact; enact.